ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has firmly denied recent media reports suggesting that the non-renewal of long-distance international (LDI) licenses could lead to the shutdown of automated teller machines (ATMs) and a nationwide telecommunications blackout.
The PTA labeled these claims as “fake news,” aiming to reassure the public that there is no imminent threat to the country’s IT or financial sectors.
In its statement, the PTA clarified that the operations of expired LDI license holders have not been suspended or shut down. The authority emphasized that there is no disruption in the availability of LDI networks, which means that essential services, including ATM networks, remain fully operational.
The misleading reports had claimed that 40% of ATMs and 50% of mobile traffic would be affected if the LDI licenses were not renewed. The PTA’s clarification serves to dispel these rumors, confirming that there is no such issue that could impact the telecommunications or financial infrastructure of the country.
By addressing these concerns directly, the PTA aims to prevent unnecessary panic and to ensure the public that all necessary measures are in place to maintain uninterrupted service in both telecommunications and banking sectors. This proactive stance by the PTA is crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring the stability of essential services.
